Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Barbering
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,930 median (26% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Barber licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Barbering and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $48,930, Barbers in Kentucky earn 26% above the national median of $38,960. Kentucky ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$48,930Hourly estimate
$23.5226% above national median
Difference: +$9,970
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | $78,480 |
| #2 | Washington | $70,750 |
| #3 | North Carolina | $64,290 |
| #4 | Colorado | $56,690 |
| #5 | Louisiana | $49,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Barber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $43,590 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $46,930 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $34,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $44,760 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $31,230 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $44,390 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $36,300 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Barbering
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 110, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297148
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $32,170 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Massage Therapist | $54,890 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Nail Technician | $60,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Barbers in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Barber licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Barber salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Kentucky is $48,930. Salaries range from $26,460 (10th percentile) to $66,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Barbers in Kentucky earn 26% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of $48,930.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Barbering. Review agency details at http://barbering.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Barber license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.